a Florida gardening blog

Pace Virtual Farmers Market

There has been a farmers market right under my nose for almost a whole year, and I just discovered it.

I attended for the first time last Thursday, not quite sure what to expect.

I certainly didn’t expect so many people. The market was crowded when I arrived a few minutes after 6 p.m.

Many order their specific items throughout the week, so I was a bit concerned that I would feel a bit out-of-place because I hadn’t ordered anything ahead of time. However, once I got there and started looking at the displays I felt like I was at a regular market.

This market started simply as a way for locals to get fresh vegetable shares and has grown over the last year to include vendors with meat, eggs, baked goods, jams, crafts, cheese, soaps, and many other items. Members of their facebook page can order specific items throughout the week, then pick their items up at the Thursday evening market behind the Relevant Life Church on Hwy 90 between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

I think the pre-ordering process makes it easier for those who are baking and preparing specific foods to reduce waste.

Lazy K Farm was there, with an assortment of squash, potatoes, onions, and REAL tomatoes.

Look at this beautiful ‘Cherokee Purple’ tomato!

I sniffed some soy candles, including one that reminded me of a Creamsicle. Andrea also sells these and other items in her etsy shop.

I met Amanda from Buttered Biscuits, and I was fascinated by the varieties of jams, jellies, and sauces that she had to offer. Her watermelon jelly won 2nd place at the Santa Rosa County Fair.

She also told me about her Monkey Butter, which was a 1st place winner. She told me that it had pineapple, coconut, bananas… Yum! No wonder she was sold out of it.

The jar of Kiwi Blood Orange Marmalade sounded yummy, so I bought a jar. It’s a little embarrassing how much is gone already.

I love to make jam (especially if it’s an easy recipe, like Two Ingredient Strawberry Jam), but sometimes it’s nice to let someone else make the jam for you. 🙂

For more information about this market, you can visit their blog here, or ask to join their facebook group here.

I’m excited about their SUPER market coming up this Thursday, June 11. It is in celebration of the market’s one year anniversary and will be open 4:30-7:30 p.m.This market will include a raffle drawing with many prizes, including a $200 shopping spree to the market.

I do love a good farmers market! We often go to a huge one in Irvine, California on Saturday mornings. It’s more than just a local farmers market, they have produce from central California to Southern California. The prices are usually really good and an amazing selection. Lke you, however, I just found out that in the summer we have a farmers market right here on our own city hall lawn. I can’t believe I have never been. Thanks for reminding me to check it out tomorrow.

Thanks! We did manage to check out our local farmers market this evening and what a disappointment! There were many vendors there selling a variety of things but surprisingly no one selling any fruits or vegetables. Mmm…. maybe it is too early in the season or just not a true farmers market . Just a note, compost pile coming along famously!😄